My name is Ovidiu Solcan, and I was born and raised in Bucharest, Romania, during the communist era. My passion for art began at an early age, leading me to explore various artistic expressions. My journey into the world of art started with painting and drawing, which naturally evolved into a broader exploration of different mediums, including graffiti, sculpture, and videography. This exploration ultimately guided me towards the unique art form that defines my work today: fine art collage.
Artistic Practice
Art has always been my primary means of self-expression. After experimenting with various mediums, I found myself drawn to collage and mixed media. This choice was driven by my appreciation for recycling and sustainability. Collage allows me to gather a wealth of information and meaning within a single artwork, using scraps of recycled magazines that I meticulously paste onto canvas. Occasionally, I still experiment with other mediums like paint and plastic, but my core focus remains on collage.
Growing up in communist Romania, my exposure to Western culture was limited. However, after the regime fell, I was captivated by the flood of Western movies, music, and cultural icons that suddenly became accessible. This cultural shift profoundly impacted me, shaping the themes of my work. My art often features pop icons and explores their influence on the world, reflecting the powerful impact they had on my own life during my formative years.
Professional Experience
My professional journey as an artist began in 2008 when all of my exhibited works in a local restaurant sold out within a month. That moment solidified my decision to pursue art as a career. Over the past 16 years, I've sold over 500 artworks through auctions, galleries, and directly via social media.
I studied architecture, which introduced me to a more technical form of drawing and sketching. You can still see architectural influences in my art, which I consider to be a significant mind-opener for my artistic career.
I've showcased my work in numerous exhibitions and collaborations, including:
In 2018, I had the unique opportunity to exhibit my creative process live as an installation at The Grand Avenue. I also partnered with Mastercard and Daruieste Viata Association in 2019, creating live collages with public participation at various events, including MARe - Recent Art Museum, Electric Castle Festival, and TIFF - Transylvanian International Film Festival.
My work has been featured by Saatchi Art and in several prominent auctions, including ARTMARK's Datini Contemporane Gala 2018 and Monza Ares Hospital's inauguration. Additionally, my art has been part of advertising campaigns for brands such as Mastercard, AfterEight, Glo, Ralawaise, Mirinda, Oppo, Jack Daniel’s, and Esquire.
Inspiration and Motivation
I draw inspiration from the power and influence of popular personalities, particularly those who have shaped our culture and society. My work predominantly features pop art portraits, with a message that change begins with us. Just as the icons in my art have had a significant impact on the world, I hope to inspire others to make positive changes in their own lives.
Studio and Process
After working in various studios, I’ve come to value the importance of slowing down for a balanced life. I now create my art in a personal studio at my home. My creative process usually begins with a digital layout, which I transfer onto canvas. I then cut and paste pieces of recycled magazines to create my pop art portrait collages. This straightforward process is closely inspired by mural art techniques.
Achievements and Recognition
While I haven’t pursued formal awards or honors, my work has gained recognition through various exhibitions and media features worldwide. My art has been highlighted in numerous magazines and interviews, reaching a global audience. You can google me :)
Personal Touch
Outside of art, I’m deeply interested in recycling and sustainable living. I also continue to practice architecture, blending technical precision with artistic creativity. I consider myself a multidisciplinary artist, constantly exploring new ways to express my ideas.
Client and Community Engagement
I create art to inspire those who hang it on their walls, offering a daily reminder to strive for better. I connect with my audience primarily through Instagram, where I have a large following, and recently, I’ve started sharing my journey and tips on collage art through my YouTube channel.
Contact and Interaction
I am an open and accessible artist. Whether through email, social media, or other means, I welcome interactions and am available for commissions. I genuinely appreciate your interest in my art and look forward to connecting with art lovers and clients alike.
Motto:
"Transforming the ordinary into extraordinary, one piece at a time, while inspiring others to see the world as a canvas for positive change."
Philosophy:
"Art is a powerful tool for transformation. My work is a reflection of the belief that every action, no matter how small, can contribute to a larger, positive change in the world. I strive to inspire others to embrace creativity, sustainability, and the endless potential for personal and collective growth."
Art Statement
My work is a celebration of cultural icons and the transformative power they hold in shaping our society. Drawing from my experiences growing up in communist Romania, where exposure to the West was limited, I am deeply influenced by the sudden influx of Western culture after the regime's fall. This cultural awakening introduced me to a world filled with personalities and legends, which continue to inspire my art today.
I primarily work with recycled magazines, creating intricate collages that merge sustainability with storytelling. Each piece is a meticulous assembly of fragments, reflecting the complexity and depth of the individuals I portray. By repurposing these materials, I not only reduce waste but also infuse my art with a sense of history and continuity.
My art is rooted in the belief that change begins with us, just as the icons in my work have had a profound impact on the world. Through my collages, I aim to inspire viewers to recognize their own potential for positive change, to see the beauty in the discarded, and to appreciate the enduring influence of culture in our lives.
